LAKE CHARLES – Part 3 of a series previewing the McNeese Cowboys as they approach the start of fall camp on Thursday, Aug. 1.
 
2019 McNeese Football Fall Camp Preview: Running Backs
 
On the roster:
Lettermen – Justin Pratt, J'Cobi Skinner, J'uan Gross
Newcomers/Freshmen  - Elijah Mack (TR), D'Andre Hicks (TR), McCaylon Thibeaux, Carlos Williams.
 
Key Storyline – Stable of Backs, Part II
 
McNeese returns second-leading rusher from a year ago in Justin Pratt (93-320, TD) and J'Cobi Skinner, who closed out the season as one of the top return guys in the Southland Conference.
 
Add in transfers Elijah Mack (South Florida) and D'Andre Hicks (Appalachian State), along with bruiser J'uan Gross, and the Cowboys appear to have another solid stable of backs for the second straight season.
 
Pratt is entering his senior season and has rushed for 1,440 yards (ranked just outside the top 30 all-time) and nine touchdowns in his career.
 
Skinner had a very productive spring and has a balanced skill set.
 
Mack is an every down back that's built more like former Cowboys Ryan Ross and David Hamm.
 
Hicks is a back who is talented with the ball in his hands. He's still learning the offense and should provide the Cowboys with adequate depth.
 
Both Williams and Gross are big backs that can pound the ball.
 
Rotation – Keeping guys healthy and feeding the hot hand is the priority. Some may also see action on special teams as well.
 
Outlook – There's a lot of talent in the backfield, especially with the addition of Mack and Hicks. The group of backs brings many different skill sets that will give the Cowboys an advantage when facing different situations.